STUDY ON THE VARIATIONS OF AN EUTROPHIC ECOSYSTEM FROM THE SPANISH MEDITERRANEAN LITTORAL: DATA TO HAVE IN MIN IN THE NUTRIENT DUMPING TO THE SEA

E. Soler T., J.G. del Rio, J.J. Diez

Abstract

Cullera Bay is a neritic ecosystem placed on the Spanish Mediterranean Littoral largely influenced by the Jucar River, that brings about lower salinities than surrounding waters, and broad variations of its values. An extensive research, with 9 samplings throughout the year, was carried out, measuring both physical and chemical parameters, and the planktonic communities. The trophic status of the ecosystem, the spatial and temporal variations of the nutrients and the planktonic communities were studied, evaluating the influence of the river loads and the littoral dynamics. Some essential basis to allow a suitable emplacement of waste waters disposals along the Valencian littoral are set up in order to minimize the gradual eutrophication of this coast.